Your personality is as unique as your fingerprint. It shapes your thoughts, behaviors, and the way you see the world. And while most people have quirks and idiosyncrasies that make them who they are, some struggle with personality disorders that can significantly impact their lives and the lives of those around them.
The psychotherapists at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates understand. We specialize in telehealth therapy for personality disorders, and in this blog, we’re taking a closer look at four personality disorders and how to spot the warning signs.
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) affects your ability to manage your emotions. It’s characterized by emotional instability and impulsive behavior, and it affects about one in 100 people.
Some warning signs to look out for include:
BPD can cause an intense fear of being abandoned or rejected by loved ones. You may find yourself going to great lengths in your relationships with others to avoid this perceived abandonment.
People with BPD often struggle with impulsive behavior. You might engage in reckless activities like binge eating, substance abuse, unsafe sex, or self-harm as a way to cope with emotional distress.
Another common sign of BPD is tumultuous relationships. You might experience intense but short-lived relationships that are marked by idealization and devaluation of the other person.
Narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by an excessive sense of self-importance and a lack of empathy for others. It impacts up to 5% of Americans.
This personality disorder can cause warning signs like:
People with narcissistic personality disorder may struggle with an inflated sense of self-worth. You might find yourself exaggerating your achievements and talents to others.
If you have narcissistic personality disorder, you may crave constant admiration and validation from other people. These cravings are often excessive and intense.
A hallmark of narcissistic personality disorder is a lack of empathy for the feelings and needs of others. This can make it difficult for you to maintain healthy relationships.
Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is marked by persistent disregard for the rights of others and a tendency toward impulsive and aggressive behavior. As many as 3.6% of adults struggle with ASPD.
Warning signs may include:
People with ASPD often lie, manipulate, or con others for personal gain without feeling guilty.
ASPD can cause impulsivity without consideration of the consequences. That means you may be more likely to engage in delinquent or risky behaviors.
Because of their lack of remorse, people with ASPD may engage in a pattern of criminal behavior.
Avoidant personality disorder is marked by extreme shyness, feelings of inadequacy, and fear of rejection. It’s also called anxious personality disorder, and it affects up to 2.5% of Americans.
Common warning signs of avoidant personality disorder are:
Avoidant personality disorder can make you hesitant to take risks or engage in new experiences. This hesitation can limit your personal and professional growth.
Even mild criticism or rejection can have a profound impact on people struggling with avoidant personality disorder, causing them to withdraw further.
Finally, you tend to avoid social interactions, particularly those involving unfamiliar people. This is often due to an intense fear of being negatively evaluated.
Personality disorders take many different forms, and recognizing the warning signs is the first step toward seeking help. Diagnosing a personality disorder requires a thorough assessment by a mental health professional, and our team is here to help you get the answers you need.
Working with a mental health professional for counseling, therapy, and medication, in some cases, can be effective tools to manage these disorders. Learn more with a consultation at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates. Call the office nearest you, or request an appointment online today.
